Ok this is my first time with multi value fields. I am constructing a db for use in schools and one field contains information on disabilities. There are 9 defined disabilities so I created a multi value column. Then I created a test form with a combobox and it worked a treat but when I tried to use it on my data entry form I got the list of values but you couldn't select and the OK button was blacked out. I am obviously doing something wrong. Can anyone suggest any solutions.
-
-
I think, Multi value field is created only if one student/person can have multiple disabilities. If yes, then multi value field should be created. Otherwise, the table structure itself is wrong. You can create a simple lookup field, which can be linked with another table maintained for different types of disabilities. -
I would like to help you, but I don't use multi-value fields an consequently have no experience with them. I looked into them, but found that they broke the rules when it comes to Database Normalization and Table Structures. Also, the non-standard normalization causes use a unique syntax to be used when writing a Query.
What I'm getting at, is that I would highly recommend not using Multi-Value fields in Access, even tough they look easy enough to implement.
Instead, of using a multi-value field, typically most people use another table and store the values as multiple lines that are linked back to the Main Table. There is one other way to accomplish this that is much more complex, but I don't think it would apply here. If you were to use an additional table to store off the multiple selections, then instead of using the ComboBox, you would create a SubForm (typically in datasheet form) with a ComboBox to display and select the Disabilities; then place it on your Main Form, linking on Primary Key of the Main Form's Record and then you should be able to add as many Disabilities as needed per Main Form Record.Comment
-
Thanks to both of you. I agree it's not something I would use except in special cases. In fact I already had a simple method of doing it by using 4 identical lookup fields in a popup box which then concatenated the answers in a single string and stored the string value in the field. However the multivalue enables you to choose multi[le disabilities in one go which is why Iliked it for this field. I did solve the problem simply by cutting and pasting the wizard generated combox into my form and deleting the old control. I have no idea why my version didn't work and the wizard's did. Go figure.Comment
Comment